Fulham ‘to prepare’ £24m bid for Shea Charles as Leeds consider next move | OneFootball

Leeds United’s pursuit of Shea Charles faces fresh competition as Fulham are preparing a £24m bid, according to the Daily Mail. Talks are expected to move forward this week, with new manager Alvaro Arbeloa supportive and the figure close to Southampton’s £25m valuation.

Leeds have already seen a series of approaches knocked back and have not returned to the table since their last offer. The club are reluctant to be held to ransom, with early indications Saints wanted close to £30m.

Charles, 22, impressed last season in helping Southampton reach the play-off final and his form has made him a sought-after defensive midfielder. Crystal Palace have also been credited with interest.

Southampton are taking a firm stance as they seek to maximise any sale, having signed the Northern Ireland international from Manchester City three years ago for £15m.

Whether Fulham’s move prompts Leeds into a fresh bid remains to be seen. There are suggestions Southampton may now be ready to do business.

Source: Leeds Live